Bose Lifestyle 18 Series III Manual

The Bose Lifestyle 18 Series III is a premium home theater system featuring a media center, Acoustimass module, Jewel Cube speakers, and a universal remote. It supports DVD/CD playback, AM/FM radio, and multi-room audio capabilities. The system includes advanced audio calibration (ADAPTiQ), video upscaling, HDMI connectivity, and compatibility with various audio formats. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Connecting Devices 7. Playing Media 8. Multi-Room Audio 9. Care & Cleaning 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Media Center, Acoustimass Module, Five Jewel Cube Speakers, Universal Remote Control, ADAPTiQ Calibration Headset, Antenna inputs, HDMI ports, Component Video outputs, Analog Audio inputs.

FeatureDescription
Media CenterCentral control unit with DVD/CD player, AM/FM tuner, and input/output connections
Acoustimass ModulePowerful bass unit for low-frequency effects
Jewel Cube SpeakersFive compact speakers for front, center, and surround channels
Universal RemoteControls system, TV, cable box, and other components
ADAPTiQ CalibrationAutomatically adjusts audio to room acoustics
HDMI PortsFor high-definition video and audio connection
Component Video OutputsFor connecting to compatible displays
Analog Audio InputsFor connecting external audio sources
Multi-Room CapabilityExtends audio to additional rooms (optional kit required)
Video UpscalingEnhances standard definition video to near HD quality

Installation

Unpack and inspect all components. Place media center in a well-ventilated area.

  1. Connect speakers: Use color-coded cables to connect Jewel Cube speakers to media center.
  2. Connect Acoustimass module: Use provided cable to link to media center.
  3. Connect video display: Use HDMI or component video cables to TV/projector.
  4. Connect sources: Connect cable/satellite box, gaming console, etc., to media center inputs.
  5. Connect antennas: Attach AM loop and FM wire antennas.
  6. Plug into AC power.

WARNING! Ensure proper ventilation around media center. Do not block vents. Use two people when moving Acoustimass module.

First-Time Setup

Power on system; follow on-screen prompts.

  1. Run ADAPTiQ calibration: Put on headset, press ADAPTiQ button, follow audio tones.
  2. Set language: In system menu, select preferred language.
  3. Configure inputs: Assign names to connected sources (Cable, Blu-ray, etc.).
  4. Set clock: Configure time and date for timer functions.
  5. Test speakers: Use built-in test tone to verify all speakers are working.

CAUTION! Perform ADAPTiQ calibration in the listening position for optimal sound.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Access menu via remote or front panel. Front Panel: POWER, EJECT, VOLUME knob, INPUT select.

Remote: POWER, Numeric buttons, MENU, NAVIGATION arrows, SELECT, VOLUME, MUTE, INPUT, ADAPTiQ, DVD transport controls.

Audio Settings: Bass, Treble, Dialogue Mode, Night Mode. Video Settings: Output Resolution (480p, 720p, 1080i, 1080p), Aspect Ratio. System Settings: Language, Clock, Input Setup, Factory Reset. ADAPTiQ: Run calibration, view results.

Connecting Devices

HDMI: Recommended for best quality. Component/Composite: For older displays. Audio: Use digital coaxial or analog RCA.

  1. Turn off all devices before connecting.
  2. Use high-quality cables for best performance.
  3. Select input on media center or remote (e.g., HDMI 1, CBL/SAT).
  4. Program remote to control other devices (TV, cable box).

Tip: Label cables for easy identification during setup.

Playing Media

Supports DVD, CD, MP3 CD.

  1. Insert disc: Press EJECT, load media label-side up.
  2. Play: Press PLAY; use navigation for titles/chapters/tracks.
  3. Stop: Press STOP; system remembers stop point (Last Memory).
  4. Skip: PREV/NEXT for chapters/tracks.
  5. Repeat/Shuffle: Access via on-screen menu.
  6. Radio: Press AM/FM, tune manually or use presets.
  7. External Source: Select corresponding input (e.g., AUX, CBL/SAT).

WARNING! Do not use damaged or irregularly shaped discs. Keep media center free of obstructions.

Multi-Room Audio

Optional kit required. Extend audio to one or two additional rooms.

  1. Connect Bose link cable from media center to room selector.
  2. Connect speakers or another Acoustimass system in remote room.
  3. Select source for each room independently via remote or system menu.
  4. Control volume per room.

Note: Multi-room operation may limit source availability in main room.

Care & Cleaning

Unplug system before cleaning. Use soft, dry cloth for media center and speakers. For Jewel Cube grilles, use a soft brush.

CAUTION! Do not use liquids, solvents, or abrasive cleaners. Do not open any components.

Regulatory Information

FCC Compliance: This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Copyright © Bose Corporation. All rights reserved. Bose, Lifestyle, Acoustimass, Jewel Cube, and ADAPTiQ are trademarks of Bose Corporation. For support, visit www.bose.com or contact Bose Customer Service.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No powerPower cord, outletEnsure power cord is securely connected; try a different outlet.
No sound from speakersConnections, volumeCheck speaker wire connections; ensure volume is not muted or too low.
Remote not workingBatteries, obstaclesReplace batteries; ensure clear path to media center IR sensor.
No pictureInput selection, cablesVerify correct input is selected; check HDMI/Video cable connections.
Disc not recognizedDisc format, dirtEnsure disc is compatible and clean; eject and reinsert.
Poor radio receptionAntenna placementReposition AM loop and FM wire antennas; ensure connections are tight.
ADAPTiQ failedNoise, headsetRun calibration in a quiet room; ensure headset is properly connected.

Reset: Menu > System > Factory Reset (note: erases all settings).

Service: Contact Bose Customer Support or authorized service center.

Bose Lifestyle 18 Series III Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025